Journaling offers a private place to vent, express or release.  Journaling is a powerful tool that any Survivor can use to become better connected to themselves.  You do not need to be a writer to reap the benefits of journaling; anyone can do it. 

A journal can be whatever you make it.  Some prefer to use a simple lined notebook; others prefer to opt for something with large blank pages to leave room for art.  Journals are not limited to writing only. They are your place to express anything that needs to be expressed in any form you feel comfortable with. 

I recommend starting with ten to twenty minutes a day, and writing more as you see fit.

Some ideas of what to write in your journal:

• Simply write what you are feeling or experienced throughout the day.
• Answer specific questions from a workbook.
• Tell your story piece by piece.  Add a little each day.
• Record your dreams.
• Make a list of things you would like to do in your life, things you are thankful for etc.
• Write a letter.  Address it to an inner aspect of yourself, someone who hurt you, a higher power, or anyone or anything that feels appropriate.
• Write a short story about something that happened to you as if it happened to the “character” in the story.
• Write about the present, such as where you are, the temperature of the room, the clothes you are wearing, what feelings and thoughts you are experiencing right now.
• Write about your Spiritual beliefs
• Write a letter to a feeling, thought or concept.
• Add a poem or song you have written or record a favorite poem, prayer or set of lyrics.

If you prefer, you can choose to make your journal public or start a blog.  This will allow you to receive feedback and support.  The following sites will help you get started.